tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75009792017-09-26T14:52:00.221-05:00Wild OlivePatterns, projects, and printables, with a focus on creating cuteness. Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.comBlogger2861125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-72178319158228207512017-09-15T18:00:00.000-05:002017-09-15T18:00:08.955-05:00book review // pretty handmades by lauren wright<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37104821681/in/dateposted/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/37104821681_eeba5b8679_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />For the last week or so I've been stitching, stitching, stitching so I could make something pretty and handmade. Why? Because today I get to show you Lauren Wright's new book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Handmades-Fabric-Sewing-Projects/dp/6059192203">Pretty Handmades</a>, along with a project I made from it!<br /><br />This delightful book is filled with felt and florals, embroidery and hand sewing, and so much more. It perfectly captures <a href="http://www.mollyandmama.com.au/">Lauren's Molly and Mama style</a> and I was so excited when she asked me to be part of her book showcase, which is a month-long blog tour of sorts. Each day in September, you can see what folks are making. It's a great way to get a glimpse of what's in the book, while being inspired by the different takes each person has on a project.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247473665/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/37247473665_e4fb36d8aa_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />There are so many beautiful projects in Pretty Handmades, but I went for the Ribbons and Bows Clutch, making it just a little different from the original plan. But first, here's a few other projects that caught my eye...<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247468635/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4407/37247468635_4af948452a_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />The Sweet Treat Wall Banner was a top contender for me. After all, I know that I could add a little Wild Olive face to that cupcake to bring my personality to the pastry!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247466335/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4364/37247466335_19b2cc3f80_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />This pillow combines embroidery and English paper piecing, which I love. Isn't the piecing so pretty on this?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247463485/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/37247463485_dc1fa7ac46_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />And then there's this darling felt kitty and the EPP sleeping bag. So cute! I may convince my little sister that she should make this one. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247460225/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4434/37247460225_16800b0222_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />I settled on the Ribbons and Bows Clutch because I loved the little detail stitching on the outside and the usefulness of the pockets on the inside. But since I don't wear a lot of hair accessories or have need of a large travel case even for jewelry, I came up with a plan to adapt it slightly.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247457175/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/37247457175_68d530dc83_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a> <br /><br />The first change was just for fun. Instead of machine quilting, I hand quilted the outside panel. It really didn't take all that long, and the result is so pretty. Actually, it's probably better than my machine quilting would have been! <br /><br />I also stitched the flower petals with two straight stitches rather than the suggested lazy daisies. It changes the look just a bit, and it's been a flower stitching method I've wanted to try more.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36409836924/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/36409836924_5630a0b343_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />Inside, I made the pockets a little different because of the crochet trim I wanted to use. Partly because I love this navy lace that I bought in NYC and partly because I hoped to make the entire thing without buying any supplies!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36409834144/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4440/36409834144_25086d82cb_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />I added a ribbon tie for holding items, and created a third row of pockets in place of the original hair clip band. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36409832304/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4350/36409832304_046ae08e03_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />The biggest alteration is that I've made my clutch to hold stitching supplies! It's just the right size for a tiny embroidery hoop and lots of EPP. A spool of thread is little lump in there, but I think I can work around that. <br /><br />If you look closely, you'll notice there's just one thing missing, leaving this project unfinished. A snap! I got down to the last minute and couldn't find my nice sew-on snaps, so I guess I'll be buying a supply after all. Still, not too bad!<br /><br />And I'm so happy with the result. <br /><br />One thing I'd point out about the book is that the instructions for each project are extensive. That's good because she walks you through each step thoroughly. But it was a little overwhelming when I first looked at it. Especially as a person who wants to jump right in! If you've done much sewing in the past, you'll find that you can breeze through most of the steps and make something cute in hardly any time at all. <br /><br />But I think the true test of a project is the repeat test. Would I make this again? Yes! In fact, I'm thinking of making another clutch and filling it with EPP supplies as a gift for my 12-year-old sister for Christmas. And with all the hand work, that's saying something!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37247436785/in/photostream/" title="Pretty Handmades Book"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4367/37247436785_fbaef59f29_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pretty Handmades Book"></a><br /><br />To see more of the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pretty-Handmades-Fabric-Sewing-Projects/dp/6059192203">Pretty Handmades</a> book showcase, visit each stop on the tour! And be sure to enter the giveaway that Lauren Wright will have at the end of the month. Because if you like making pretty things, you'll want this book!<br /><br /><div align="center">September 1 // Lauren Wright <a href="http://www.mollyandmama.com.au">www.mollyandmama.com.au</a><br />September 2 // Jemima Flendt <a href="http://www.blog.tiedwitharibbon.com">www.blog.tiedwitharibbon.com</a><br />September 3 // Sharon Burgess <a href="http://www.lilabellelanecreations.com">www.lilabellelanecreations.com</a><br />September 4 // Lauren Nash <a href="http://www.transientart.com">www.transientart.com</a><br />September 5 // Sarah Edgar <a href="http://www.alittlehappyplace.blogspot.co.uk">www.alittlehappyplace.blogspot.co.uk</a><br />September 6 // Ange Hamilton <a href="http://www.alittlepatchwork.wordpress.com">www.alittlepatchwork.wordpress.com</a><br />September 7 // Elea Lutz <a href="http://www.elealutzdesign.com">www.elealutzdesign.com</a><br />September 8 // Sarah Scott <a href="http://www.piccolostudio.com.au">www.piccolostudio.com.au</a><br />September 9 // Martina Bahre <a href="http://www.avaandneve.com.au">www.avaandneve.com.au</a><br />September 10 // Heather Andrus <a href="http://www.quiltstory.blogspot.com">www.quiltstory.blogspot.com</a><br />September 11 // Faith Essenburg <a href="http://www.saranaave.wordpress.com">www.saranaave.wordpress.com</a><br />September 12 // Alisha Orlando <a href="http://www.ministryoffabric.com.au">www.ministryoffabric.com.au</a><br />September 13 // Bev McCullough <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/">www.flamingotoes.com</a><br />September 14 // Stacy Olson <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/">www.stacyolsondesign.com</a><br />September 15 // Ali Phillips <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/">www.arabesque-scissors.com</a><br />September 16 // Mollie Johanson (you're here!)<br />September 17 // Kristyne Czepuryk <a href="http://www.prettybyhand.com">www.prettybyhand.com</a><br />September 18 // Xanthe Grundy <a href="http://www.wife-made.com">www.wife-made.com</a><br />September 19 // Anne Oliver <a href="http://www.lolliandgrace.com">www.lolliandgrace.com</a><br />September 20 // Larisa Shurupov <a href="http://www.stitchingnotes.com">www.stitchingnotes.com</a><br />September 21 // Sedef Imer <a href="http://www.downgrapevinelane.com">www.downgrapevinelane.com</a><br />September 22 // Wynn Tan <a href="http://www.zakkaArt.blogspot.com">www.zakkaArt.blogspot.com</a><br />September 23 // Veronica AM <a href="http://www.VividFelicity.wordpress.com">www.VividFelicity.wordpress.com</a><br />September 24 // Minki Kim <a href="http://www.minkikim.com">www.minkikim.com</a><br />September 25 // Elise Baek <a href="http://www.eliseandemelie.com">www.eliseandemelie.com</a><br />September 26 // Megan Price <a href="http://www.dollyhenry.com.au">www.dollyhenry.com.au</a><br />September 27 // Nadra Ridgeway <a href="http://www.ellisandhiggs.com">www.ellisandhiggs.com</a><br />September 28 // Ayda Algin <a href="http://www.cafenohut.com">www.cafenohut.com</a><br />September 29 // Jodi Godfrey <a href="http://www.talesofcloth.com">www.talesofcloth.com</a><br />September 30 // Lauren Wright <a href="http://www.mollyandmama.com.au">www.mollyandmama.com.au</a></div>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-49884311701307633572017-09-13T12:02:00.000-05:002017-09-13T12:02:36.259-05:00printable // wheekly goals guinea pig list<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37208330285/in/dateposted/" title="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4339/37208330285_b59ffa2e7a_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F09%2Fprintable-wheekly-goals-guinea-pig-list.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2Fwheeklygoalssm.jpg&description=free%20guinea%20pig%20pun%20printable%20lists%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />I love lists. I also love a good play on words. So I've been waiting for the perfect time for my guinea pigs to have their own "wheekly goals" list, and back to school time feels right. Especially because they have their own pencil and crayon to help out!<br /><br />Besides the pun, the inspiration for this form of list comes from how I've been writing out my task lists lately. I frequently change up my methods to go with what works for me at the time. Often I have projects that I need to work on over several days, and a lot of those things don't have hard deadlines. And I like flexibility. <br /><br />So I figure out what I'd like to accomplish during the week. I always know which items NEED to happen, especially those that are more urgent. The rest are there to keep things moving forward.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37036091802/in/photostream/" title="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4333/37036091802_31bfefa0ec_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"></a><br /><br />I grab a piece of scrap paper, fold it in half, and list out my plan. Which is why this is a printable list that folds in half and has 10 lines (with room for an 11th item underneath). This isn't a list for all of the little details. This is bigger picture. And you can't usually accomplish more than a couple big items each day. Having less room to write out the list reminds me and you of that.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/37208328095/in/photostream/" title="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4397/37208328095_2d9481a3a2_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Wheekly Goals - a guinea pig printable list"></a><br /><br />My scrap paper lists aren't nearly as cute as Captain Cuddles and Lieutenant Nibbles, right? I probably will still use my old method when I have unneeded pattern pages around (so I'm not just recycling without getting a little more use out of the paper). But when I need an infusion of cute, I'll print off a few Wheekly Goal lists and get to work!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/wheeklygoals.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE WHEEKLY GOALS LIST PDF</a></div>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-46282014394442252272017-09-05T16:42:00.000-05:002017-09-05T16:42:13.539-05:00pink stork scissors for snipping threads and stowing needles<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36802501421/in/dateposted/" title="Pink Stork Scissors and Needle Minder"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/36802501421_7391b77506_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors and Needle Minder"></a><br /><br />Do you love embroidery scissors as much as I do? I have an ever-growing collection of them, many of which are vintage, and my latest addition is both a usable pair of pink storks as well as my own homage to stork scissors!<br /><br />The tiny enamel stork scissors are my own design, created for <a href="https://www.cloudcraft.co.uk">Cloud Craft</a>, an online stitching shop based in the UK. When Nicole asked me to create an enamel design, I was excited, and when she suggested stork scissors I knew that it would be a fun project. And they're even more fun to admire when you're stitching!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36802497131/in/dateposted/" title="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4399/36802497131_bd906a1f93_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"></a><br /><a href="https://www.cloudcraft.co.uk/tools-and-notions/wild-olive-collab-products/wild-olive-needle-minder"><br />The needle minder</a> is hard enamel and comes with a large magnet that goes on the back of the hooped fabric. I often think of these as needing to have a magnet attached to the back, PLUS a separate magnet, but the stork itself is magnetic. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36802489931/in/photostream/" title="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4343/36802489931_4bf429a40b_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36133909233/in/photostream/" title="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4440/36133909233_773fa3fea1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"></a><br /><br />And here's how it looks when it's in use! Yay for a needle that's not lost!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36770973722/in/photostream/" title="Pink Stork Scissors"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4414/36770973722_54026c603c_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors"></a><br /><br />When I designed the needle minder, the idea was that the pink represented pink gold, which is a little fancier than standard gold stork scissors. But then, Nicole did something magical. She had <a href="https://www.cloudcraft.co.uk/tools-and-notions/needlework-scissors/snipsters-embroidery-scissors/snipsters-embroidery-scissors-light-pink">pink stork scissors</a> made to match the needle minder! <br /><br />I was so smitten, and they've become my favorite embroidery scissors. I mean, aren't they cute?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36770971582/in/photostream/" title="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4390/36770971582_5653251776_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pink Stork Scissors Needle Minder"></a><br /><br />Speaking of cute, let's just look at this needle minder once more. I always try to make things cute, but the size of this really locks in the cuteness. <br /><br />Oh, and if you're really a fan of embroidery scissors, this same enamel design is <a href="https://www.cloudcraft.co.uk/tools-and-notions/wild-olive-collab-products/wild-olive-stork-necklace">also available as a necklace!</a> And maybe, just maybe, you might see another needle minder design coming along in the future. Just sayin...<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://www.cloudcraft.co.uk/tools-and-notions/wild-olive-collab-products">CHECK OUT THE CLOUD CRAFT + WILD OLIVE COLLABORATION</a></div>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-32836056636176639132017-09-01T14:22:00.000-05:002017-09-01T14:22:21.313-05:00calendar // september back to school guinea pigs <img src="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017September.png" width="640" /><br /><br />And just like that, it's September. The weather has been cooler where I live, and so I guess I should have seen this coming. Never mind the school supplies that are everywhere, or even starting to disappear. Thankfully, Capt. Cuddles and Lt. Nibbles were able to get their paws on a few items so they can go back to guinea pig school. <br /><br />If you're wondering what guinea pigs learn in school, today's lesson plan is "share your cucumber snack with your sister." <br /><br />Anyway, they're showing off their new supplies and are ready to grace your screens for September.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017September_Desktop.png" class="blackbtn">Download the Desktop Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017September_iPhone.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPhone Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017September_iPad.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPad Wallpaper</a></div><br />These wallpapers will fit most devices (I use the iPad one on my lock screen), and they'll keep your company through this new month.<br /><br />When I open up Blogger to set up a new calendar post, I always become very aware of how many (or often, how few) posts I've actually written in the month. August only had a total of four posts, which is a crazy low number for a girl who, at one time, posted nearly every day. Months like these are a good time to remind myself of the other things I've done outside of this blog. Here are a few of them!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36792120072/in/dateposted/" title="Cross Stitch Food Puns"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/36792120072_fb488f2255_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Cross Stitch Food Puns"></a><br /><br />Technically, I designed these Christmas food pun cross stitch patterns prior to August, but the issue of <a href="http://www.cross-stitching.com/magazines/cross-stitch-crazy">Cross Stitch Crazy Magazine</a> just came out, so it seems appropriate to share them now. You'll find them in issue 234, and you can keep your eyes open for more of my designs in future issues, because I finished another set last month and I'm working on another now!<br /><br />By the way, these puns have me thinking of ideas for new patterns. Would pun-themed embroidery patterns be a fun thing you'd be interested in?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36963205915/in/dateposted/" title="Kasuti Embroidery"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4368/36963205915_ba063a2ecf_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Kasuti Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Also in stitching, I researched and learned about Kasuti embroidery! It's a rabbit hole that I'm delighted to have fallen down. <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-do-kasuti-embroidery-4148185">You can find my post on this beautiful Indian embroidery over at The Spruce.</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36792089142/in/photostream/" title="Rainbow Emoji Mini Books"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4340/36792089142_52ec9d0681_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Rainbow Emoji Mini Books"></a><br /><br />These rainbow mini books are based on emojis (❤️📙😸🌵💎☂🎀) and they're stitched together with a Japanese bookbinding technique. <a href="http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/printable-rainbow-emoji-notebooks/">They're over at Handmade Charlotte.</a> While you're there, look for my <a href="http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/wacky-arm-clothespin-dolls/">Wacky Arm Clothespin Dolls</a>, inspired by Nintendo's new game ARMS.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36792103832/in/photostream/" title="Beach Windsock"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4340/36792103832_8b5523d102_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Beach Windsock"></a><br /><br />To help hold on to summer, I created a <a href="http://www.hellobee.com/2017/08/21/printable-beach-windsock-kid-craft/">Printable Beach Windsock project</a> for kids at Hello Bee. And I'll point out that those little fish and other creatures make excellent embroidery patterns. Just sayin...<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36963219255/in/photostream/" title="About The Town Mini Quilt"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/36963219255_6718c6e852_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About The Town Mini Quilt"></a><br /><br />Oh, and August was also when we were finishing up the About the Town Stitching Club! During my stitching clubs, I stitch ahead of the rest of the club, but I'm still stitching and finishing things along the way. So this was a lovely thing to complete. AND I get to see tons of others as they stitch their own projects! <br /><br />Now I'm working on the next club, and will post details here soon. But if you missed the last club, you can still <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/p/ex.html">purchase the entire set of patterns and instructions as one download</a>. <br /><br />August was definitely full, and I'm on track for an even fuller September. Maybe I'll even manage to post more right here at Wild Olive!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-28352577216793183192017-08-22T13:27:00.000-05:002017-08-22T15:24:25.890-05:00project // easy-stitch watermelon hoop art<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36738850645/in/dateposted/" title="WatermelonHoop1"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4384/36738850645_2abcfb4f90_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop1"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F08%2Fproject-easy-stitch-watermelon-hoop-art.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FWatermelonHoopSM.jpg&description=easy-stitch%20watermelon%20hoop%20art%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />When August rolls around, everyone is talking about going back to school. But I for one am not ready to abandon summer. So today I'm sharing a fast and easy embroidered watermelon hoop. You'll be able to finish it in a day and enjoy it a long while before the season changes. <br /><br />Despite the fact that it may be a little off-season, when I suddenly thought about stitching a watermelon, I jumped on it. Consider it my way of preserving a little more of the summer. And you can join me! <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35904336164/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop2"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4375/35904336164_2bd47b1219_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop2"></a><br /><br /><b>You will need:</b><br /><br />Wooden embroidery hoop<br />Green paint (I used plain and glitter)<br />Watermelon-colored fabric<br />Brown or black embroidery floss<br />Paintbrush<br />Embroidery tools<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36599613871/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop3"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4337/36599613871_d7e2be3bf8_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop3"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36599612851/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop4"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4433/36599612851_05e008a11a_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop4"></a><br /><br />Start by painting the embroidery hoop green. I used a medium green and painted a couple coats so it was even. Next I added a few coats of green glitter paint. <br /><br />Instead of glitter, you could use a lighter green to add some wobbly lines like you might see on a real watermelon.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35904324214/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop5"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4437/35904324214_dbf75562c7_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop5"></a><br /><br />Hoop up your fabric and thread a needle with brown or black embroidery floss. I used all six strands for mine so the embroidery would be bold and show up well.<br /><br />If you want a face on yours (because it's cute and kawaii!), start with that. Pick a spot and <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2011/05/embroidery-basics-making-faces-french.html">embroider the face with two french knot eyes and a scallop stitch mouth</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36599606281/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop6"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4420/36599606281_b826a1d26f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop6"></a><br /><br />Now, add detached chain stitch (single lazy daisies) watermelon seeds all around the face to fill in the hoop.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36599597171/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop7"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4413/36599597171_8f4997a441_b.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop7"></a><br /><br />When the embroidery is done, finish off the back of the hoop however you want, and you're done!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36342769840/in/photostream/" title="WatermelonHoop8"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36342769840_2d639d5c92_h.jpg" width="640" alt="WatermelonHoop8"></a><br /><br />The process of painting the hoop and waiting for it to dry between coats takes longer than the actual stitching. That's how fast this little project is! But it's a great way to hold onto a little bit of summer. <br /><br />And you could use this same concept to make other kinds of embroidered fruits. For example, you could make a series of different types of melons. Or if you wanted to be a little more seasonal, paint the hoops in apple colors, then use an off white fabric and stitch just a few seeds along with the face. Try it!<br /><br />Happy stitching!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-73027392619210845042017-08-13T06:00:00.000-05:002017-08-13T06:00:22.487-05:00stitching is my happy place<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36070187430/in/dateposted/" title="Stitching Is My Happy Place"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4427/36070187430_90a414c525_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Stitching Is My Happy Place"></a><br /><br />Recently I sketched out a little thought: stitching is my happy place. If that sounds strange to you, and it may, what I mean is that when I can carve out some time to stitch, I'm a happy girl. But what I've found is that even when I have to stitch for work, even when there's a deadline, stitching is a happy thing for me. I'd even go so far as to say that I often feel comfort when I'm doing embroidery and other kinds of hand sewing.<br /><br />And I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. So I made that sketch into a design that could go on pouches and t-shirts in <a href="https://wildolive.threadless.com">my Threadless Artist Shop</a>. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36070129620/in/photostream/" title="Stitching is My Happy Place"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4380/36070129620_4c8ff71bdf_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Stitching is My Happy Place"></a><br /><br />If stitching is your happy place and you want the world to know, you can pick order your own zip pouch (which I'd like to point out is perfect as a project bag) <a href="https://wildolive.threadless.com/designs/stitching-is-my-happy-place/accessories/zip-pouch">right here</a>. The pouch above is the small size and easily holds a 4-inch hoop. If you normally work with a larger hoop, go with the large pouch.<br /><br />There are also a number of women's clothing options. <a href="https://wildolive.threadless.com/designs/stitching-is-my-happy-place/womens/baseball-triblend-t-shirt">The baseball tees are my favorite</a>, because they're so soft and also a looser fit. All of the Threadless tees tend to run a little small, so keep that in mind and consider ordering up a size or two, depending on how you like things to fit.<br /><br />AND through August 26, 2017, all US orders over $45 and all international orders over $80 get FREE SHIPPING! Sweet!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36421520026/in/photostream/" title="Stitching Is My Happy Place Printable"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4408/36421520026_23c3ed2dd5_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Stitching Is My Happy Place Printable"></a><br /><br />If you don't want to wear or carry this message of stitching bliss, I also made a free printable for you. It's perfect to print out and display in your craft area, or even to use as a flat card to send to a fellow stitching friend.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/StitchingIsMyHappyPlace5x7.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE STITCHING IS MY HAPPY PLACE 5X7 PRINT</a></div><br />Do you have a happy place? Is it stitching? Do you have a place where you like to do your stitching that makes it extra happy? I'd love to hear!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-42953085259318931802017-08-07T06:00:00.000-05:002017-08-07T06:00:14.964-05:00pattern // squid and ink splats inspired by splatoon<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35582197654/in/dateposted/" title="Splatoon Embroidery Pattern"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4338/35582197654_8c10fb5ab3_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Splatoon Embroidery Pattern"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F08%2Fpattern-squid-and-ink-splats-inspired.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2Fsplatoonembroiderypatternsm.jpg&description=free%20splatoon%20embroidery%20pattern%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive%20"></a><br /><br />Do you play Nintendo's Splatoon or Splatoon 2? Or maybe someone you know plays? Well today I have an off the hook embroidery pattern for you! <br /><br />I have always have a soft spot in my heart for video games, even when I don't always have the time to play them. On occasion I'll work on crafty projects while watching my siblings play, and they're the ones who introduced me to Splatoon. I tried playing a bit, but it didn't go well and I let it go. <br /><br />And then Splatoon 2 came out, and I decided to try again. And I was hooked. <br /><br />If you're not familiar, in this game you play as a Squid Kid (or Inkling) and you team up to try and cover an area with your team's ink. It's fast-paced and so much fun!<br /><br />Now when I have a few spare minutes, I try to play a few rounds splatting colored ink all over the place. The style and look of the game are so appealing and it's really engaging. The best part is that I get to connect with my younger siblings. We don't play together (the game doesn't exactly work that way) but they love giving me tips, cheering me on, and discussing our mutual disdain for certain maps. <br /><br />The natural next step for me was to draw an embroidery pattern inspired by the game. And here it is, complete with happy ink splats. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/SplatoonEmbroideryPattern.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE SPLATOON EMBROIDERY PATTERN</a></div><br />You can use any stitches you like for this, but I do suggest what I call <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2012/03/pattern-tiny-easter-eggs-and-polka-dot_26.html">the polka dot stitch</a> for the large round bubble splatters. I can't wait to get stitching, and I even have a special technique that I've been thinking about for ages and will finally try. Yaaayyyy!<br /><br />Now, in the words of the Squid Sisters, stay fresh!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-51169265483375187792017-08-01T19:26:00.000-05:002017-08-01T19:26:21.806-05:00calendar // guinea pigs catching some august rays<img src="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017August.png" width="640" /><br /><br />Can you believe that it's already August? It's definitely the time we start thinking that summer is over, but it's also nice and warm and the perfect time to hit the pool. Especially if school starts early by you, because it's just a little quieter. <br /><br />At least, that's what Captain Cuddles and Lieutenant Nibbles think. They grabbed their favorite fruity pool floats and are catching some rays before the pool season ends. And they'd love to float around on your screen for the next month. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017August_Desktop.png" class="blackbtn">Download the Desktop Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017August_iPhone.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPhone Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017August_iPad.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPad Wallpaper</a></div><br />These wallpapers will fit most devices, so download and then make sure you are enjoying this month that is still completely not the end of summer.<br /><br />We won't talk about the fact that I'm currently working on a back-to-school printable, planning out some Halloween and Thanksgiving posts, and finishing up a Christmas project. Just repeat after me: "It's still summer. It's still summer. It's still summer."Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-523052976410414662017-07-27T05:00:00.000-05:002017-07-27T13:11:29.216-05:00project // mixed materials dmc stitchable cuff blog hop (and giveaway!)<a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/Xpjf5S" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4317/35359203753_58165d791b_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F07%2Fproject-mixed-materials-dmc-stitchable.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FMixedMaterialCuffBraceletSM.jpg&description=mixed%20material%20DMC%20stitchable%20cuff%20bracelet%20DIY%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />You all know that I love DMC embroidery threads, and anytime I can team up with them, I'm happy to do so. Which is why I'm thrilled to be part of this week's blog hop featuring projects that use a range of their products. If you haven't tried DMC's Stitchable Cork, Stitchable Mesh, or Stitchable Cuffs, you'll definitely want to after seeing all of this inspiration!<br /><br />At the end of this post you'll find all of the links to make your way through the blog hop, as well as a giveaway for a fantastic DMC prize pack (yaaaaayyy!!!). But right now I get to show off this cuff bracelet I made.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/p537jA" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4302/35359201303_15bb7aaf4e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br />This is actually the third stitchable cuff that I've made. Which is funny to me, because it's kind of designed more for cross stitch than for embroidery. But that doesn't mean you have to use it that way! The first cuff I made was <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2017/03/project-rainbow-stitched-cuff-bracelet.html">stripes of rainbow colors</a>. Then <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/embroidered-cuff-bracelet-4142661">I created some patterns</a> for stitching a waves, a feather, and a friendship bracelet. Now, I thought I'd try something a little different. <br /><br />Instead of only stitching, I decided to add in some fabric. In fact, my first thought with this was to use couching, but then I decided to work fabric into the bracelet other ways too. <br /><br />This post is more of a guide and less of a specific tutorial. You should definitely feel free to layer and stitch your own bracelet however you like. I bet you could even layer in some Stitchable Cork or Stitchable Mesh!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/dGDn0C" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4317/35359197423_8a94c9986c_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />You will need:<br /><br />DMC Stitchable Cuff<br />Fabric scraps<br />Size 8 perle cotton or embroidery floss<br />Scissors<br />Needle<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/S194cr" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4291/35359195743_08ecfb11c2_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Cut a thin strip of fabric. Mine is about 5/8in by 4in. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/7kw961" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4324/35359194513_2e313f0717_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Stitch the fabric to the cuff with running stitch, working through the pre-punched holes. A large knot will work for starting your stitching, or you can secure the end of the thread by stitching over it on the back.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/abs427" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4312/35359192993_e3bee0a567_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Add more stitching to hold the fabric in place. Oversized cross stitches work, as do straight or angled stitches. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/z704P4" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35774106850_85291d79c1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Next stitch something teeny tiny. I freehanded this little heart with a face. An initial would also work really well here. Trim the stitching down to a tiny rectangle that will fit on your bracelet.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/bzkh2N" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35774105400_69ce78ec39_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />And stitch that little piece onto the bracelet. You can overlap the first piece of fabric if you like. And use whatever stitches you want. I just went with running stitch around the edges. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/2XV460" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4306/35774103720_44f5de4af6_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/120U6S" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4315/35359186083_a6d48bbfd0_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />This next part is the couching that I was initially thinking of. Take a thin strip of fabric (mine is 5/8in wide) and twist it tightly. Then, lay it on the bracelet and stitch it down with diagonal stitches. Clips are very helpful for holding it twisted and in place as you work!<br /><br />You can even add a second color of stitching as you see below.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/qE4301" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4310/35774100930_32e8c1eea6_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Trim off any extra fabric.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/M8G4Rj" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4329/35359157733_117ee7730e_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />Add any extra stitching that you want, or leave it at that. Which means, this bracelet is finished!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/h56C5z" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4314/35359156833_afc27eb726_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />I absolutely love the layers of stitching, pattern, and bracelet base, not to mention the varying textures. Plus, it's a fun way to work in precious bits of special fabrics.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/c5Wrx1" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4321/36124929326_12a3cba28b_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/1u1S2F" title="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4303/35774050100_3f3e763efb_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Mixed-Material DMC Stitchable Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />What do you think? Do you have a favorite fabric you'd want to feature on a bracelet like this? Leave a comment and tell me how you'd stitch up a DMC Stitchable Cuff. Then, fill in the official entry through Rafflecopter below. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a class="rcptr" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/7b84167e29/" rel="nofollow" data-raflid="7b84167e29" data-theme="classic" data-template="" id="rcwidget_tzj9wvqf">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br /><script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script></div><br />There's a giveaway like this running at all of the blogs in the blog hop, so be sure to check them all out to increase your chances...and to see some really great projects!<br /><br /><div align="center"><b>Monday July 24:</b><br />Beverly McCullough - <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/2017/07/floral-home-sweet-home-hoop-hoop-embroidery-blog-hop/">Flamingo Toes</a><br /><b>Tuesday July 25:</b><br />Amy Bell - <a href="http://www.positivelysplendid.com/cactus-embroidery-pattern/">Positively Splendid</a><br />Kari Sweeten - <a href="http://www.u-createcrafts.com/sewing-is-my-happy-place-stitching-pattern/">U Create</a><br />Aimee Ray - <a href="http://littledeartracks.blogspot.com/2017/07/dmc-wrist-cuffs.html">Little Dear Tracks</a>t<br /><b>Wednesday July 26:</b><br />Michele McDonald - <a href="http://www.thescrapshoppeblog.com/2017/07/e-reader-zipper-pouch-giveaway.html">The Scrap Shoppe</a><br />Jessica Anderson - <a href="http://cutesycrafts.com/2017/07/butterfly-embroidery-mesh.html">Cutesy Crafts</a><br />Amy Byrne - <a href="http://randomactsofamy.com/2017/07/26/dmc-summer-blog-hop-cross-stitched-micro-quilt-cuff/">Random Acts of Amy</a><br /><b>Thursday July 27:</b><br />Jodie Rackley - <a href="http://lovarevolutionary.blogspot.com/">Lova Revolution</a><br />Liz Welker - <a href="http://prettylifegirls.com/">The Pretty Life Girls</a><br />Mollie Johanson - Wild Olive (you're here!)<br /><b>Friday July 28:</b><br />Beverly McCullough - <a href="http://www.flamingotoes.com/2017/07/floral-home-sweet-home-hoop-hoop-embroidery-blog-hop/">Flamingo Toes</a></div><br />For more information on DMC's Stitchable Cuffs, watch this:<br /><br /><div align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/75KvOSB869g?rel=0" width="560"></iframe></div><br />Note: This post was sponsored by DMC. But I stand behind their products and have been a huge fan since I was a kid!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com54tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-44189464852810745492017-07-24T11:59:00.000-05:002017-07-24T11:59:19.531-05:00review // sketch it! stitch it! books<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/36000078291/in/dateposted/" title="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4327/36000078291_0d5ec7f52f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"></a><br /><br />Most of the time you'll see me working on embroidery patterns and projects. Then, nearly three years ago, I was asked to design some cross-stitch patterns. It sounded like a fun challenge, so I said yes. The process of drawing embroidery patterns and cross-stitch charts is quite different, but I've continued to grow in my pattern-making confidence. <br /><br />The biggest difference in making patterns for these two processes, of course, is that instead of an outlined drawing, you need to work on a grid. That's where these adorable sketch books come in handy! Betty from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/makeitbetty">Make it Betty</a> makes these soft-cover sketch books filled with grid paper that is already sub-divided into 10x10 blocks. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35741465280/in/photostream/" title="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35741465280_15785c2255_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"></a><br /><br />Betty sent me a set of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/464680026/a5-sketch-it-stitch-it-book-blue-design">Sketch It! Stitch It!</a> books to try out, and I used them for a recent set of designs that were a hybrid between embroidery and cross-stitch. To design my patterns, I started out like to do with any of my cross-stitch designs: with a sketch. <br /><br />It's easy to think that you need to begin with a drawing that looks a lot like the end will...something like pixel art. But actually, I just rough sketch in my normal style over the grid, trying not to think too much about details at this point.<br /><br />By the way, those purple boxes are my own addition to mark out the space I wanted to work within.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35292746714/in/photostream/" title="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35292746714_62ddaf05b2_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"></a><br /><br />Then I start filling in or outlining based on the grid. Usually colored pencils are my go-to. In this case, I was following the grid with longer lines of back stitch, rather than filling the squares to represent cross stitches. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35963826722/in/photostream/" title="Cuff Bracelet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4300/35963826722_c055645847_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Cuff Bracelet"></a><br /><br />The result of my chart was this stitched bracelet! You can <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/embroidered-cuff-bracelet-4142661">find this and the rest of the charts I worked on</a> in my Sketch It! Stitch It! book over at The Spruce. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35325587183/in/photostream/" title="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35325587183_840388dd30_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Sketch It! Stitch It! review"></a><br /><br />These lines of varying lengths became the last chart in the set I shared. It's inspired by the knotted friendship bracelets we made as kids!<br /><br />For the past few years, as I've created cross-stitch charts for <a href="http://www.cross-stitching.com/magazines/cross-stitch-crazy">Cross Stitch Crazy magazine</a> (including <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/480925618/party-time-set-of-30-celebration-cross">a set of party designs that you can now find in my shop</a>), I print out graph paper to work on. When I finish, the sketches often get misplaced. What's handy about these sketch books is that my hand-drawn charts are all in one place and I don't have to hunt for them!<br /><br />When I go to make the final charts, I use an iPad app called StitchSketch (no connection to these books!). But if you're just stitching for yourself, rather than selling charts to others, the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/464684150/a5-sketch-it-stitch-it-book-pink-design">Sketch It! Stitch It!</a> books will become your own pattern spot!<br /><br />Thanks, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/makeitbetty">Make it Betty</a>, for giving me the opportunity to work with your delightful sketch books!<br />Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-54488401086233977262017-07-15T11:35:00.000-05:002017-07-15T11:35:53.022-05:00project // guinea pig cushion<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35930986395/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4258/35930986395_8babb993e9_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F07%2Fproject-guinea-pig-cushion.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FGuineaPigCushionSM.jpg&description=DIY%20Guinea%20Pig%20Cushion%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />When I heard that July 16 is Guinea Pig Appreciation Day, I knew that I needed to do something to show my own appreciation for these sweet little critters that have captured my heart. Last year <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2016/06/project-1-hour-piggy-pouch-for-guinea.html">I made a pouch for them</a> to laze about in, and they love it. So it seemed like time for another DIY designed for guinea pigs. Although this one would also be fun for humans too!<br /><br />The idea for this came when one of my piggies was sitting comfortably in a bean bag chair watching an old episode of Scarecrow and Mrs. King on DVD. She was nestled in there and just so very cute. True story.<br /><br />So I thought, what if they had their own piggy bean bag? Well, this isn't exactly a bean bag, but it is a soft and slightly squishy spot for piggies to watch some Netflix.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35890013766/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4312/35890013766_e04ccd6cd5_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Of course, even when you're crafting for critters, you can make things cute. So I made my cushion look like a guinea pig. It's styled a bit like the stuffed guinea pig in my book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Stitch-Love-Sweet-Creatures-Kitties/dp/1454708093/">Stitch Love: Sweet Creatures Big and Small</a>. Because of this, I think it would just as fun to make this as a little pillow for a piggy fan!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35930964565/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4278/35930964565_191abb1dae_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br /><b>You will need:</b><br /><br />No-pill fleece - guinea pig colors<br />Wool blend felt - black and pink<br />Embroidery floss - black, pink, and white<br />Sewing notions<br />Sewing machine<br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/GuineaPigCushion.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE GUINEA PIG CUSHION TEMPLATE PDF</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121673263/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4310/35121673263_2a9246c456_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Cut two large body pieces from fleece. I used cream for the top and brown for the bottom. <br /><br />To do this, place the pattern piece on the fold, paying attention to the stretch arrows on the template (not shown above). I extended my pattern piece to the edge of the paper, but you can cut it off for a stubbier guinea pig. <br /><br />Cut around the edge adding a 3/8-inch seam allowance.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35542369220/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4307/35542369220_ac05397921_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Cut the front and back accent pieces with an added seam allowance around the curved ends, but not on the swerve. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121665523/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4262/35121665523_962db15c55_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Pin the accent pieces to the top body piece and sew along the swerve. (That's officially now my technical term for that wavy bit.)<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35889997396/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4294/35889997396_8051fe1d4b_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Cut out two eyes from black felt, and two ears and one nose from pink felt.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121657663/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4215/35121657663_ee8ff79a4c_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Arrange the face pieces so they look cute and start stitching them down. Use three strands of matching thread to tack down the edges of the felt. <br /><br />Embroider the mouth with pink embroidery floss. I used chain stitch to make a thicker line, although satin stitch would probably be better for making super cute and smooth guinea pig lips. I did use satin stitch for the teeny tongue.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35930912345/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4321/35930912345_7bd95e0b05_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Use all six strands of white and a french knot to stitch the highlight on the eyes.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121617093/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35121617093_0aa9aea8f0_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a> <br /><br />Pin the top and bottom together, wrong sides facing. If the edges don't match up exactly, don't worry. You can trim them down later. Just be sure that you are able to catch the fabric as you sew.<br /><br />Sew around the edges, leaving one of the sides open.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121613953/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4231/35121613953_c3bb522e36_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Cut a few more pieces of fleece using the body template. This time, don't add the seam allowance. Also, you don't need to follow the stretch guide, so cut them however it fits on your fabric. <br /><br />I cut four pieces, but you can do more or less.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35930876245/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4325/35930876245_3f0afe5d0d_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Slide the fleece pieces inside the guinea pig so they fill the body.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35798836421/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4316/35798836421_403c4bf72d_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />For some extra stuffing, I cut up a bunch of fleece scraps that would have gone in the trash. These, I put between the layers of fleece.<br /><br />By the way, I opted to fill this with fleece because it won't be as soggy/lumpy as stuffing when it gets washed. That said, I expect that it will shift a bit when washed. I haven't tested it yet, but will update here when I do. I plan to just scrunch it around to keep my piggies comfy. <br /><br />As an alternative, you could tack through the layers to make it a little quilted and keep the layers from moving. I may still do that. Or, if you're making this into a pillow for you, just use regular stuffing.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35798854251/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4208/35798854251_6f54f3df48_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Sew the opening closed and trim the seam allowances as needed.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35760601342/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4318/35760601342_0246a660ba_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Let your pet try out their new cushion!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35889921756/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4291/35889921756_7b827c0152_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35121562703/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4327/35121562703_d8cc26f7a2_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />Lieutenant Nibbles is definitely enjoying her new comfy spot, and looking cute at the same time. Do you think she's noticed that her cushion looks a little like her?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35542251100/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4305/35542251100_8ed9f17430_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35760561442/in/photostream/" title="Guinea Pig Cushion"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4321/35760561442_e64b11d767_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Guinea Pig Cushion"></a><br /><br />No time to notice that she's sitting on a guinea pig...she just wants to know if you have any food for her!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-86892322900114936972017-07-12T06:00:00.000-05:002017-07-12T06:00:28.405-05:00printable // hexagon number puzzle<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35870392725/in/dateposted/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4234/35870392725_c2e2144a68_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F07%2Fprintable-hexagon-number-puzzle.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FHexagonPuzzleSM.jpg&description=Printable%20Hexagon%20Puzzle%20Game%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />When I was little, my grandparents had a puzzle that was also sort of a game. It was called "Drive Ya Nuts" because it looked like hex nuts. As in, hexagons. Which happen to be my favorite shape. <br /><br />I was reminded of that game recently, and thought it might be fun to make a printable version. In rainbow colors of course!<br /><br />The goal of the puzzle is to fit all of the pieces into the circle frame (which also happens to form a traditional hexagon flower), with all of the numbers matching up on the sides where they touch. The idea is simple, but it's actually quite tricky to get right. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/HexagonPuzzle.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE HEXAGON PUZZLE PDF</a></div><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35482487080/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4318/35482487080_3e4283e307_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />Print the pages on card stock and cut out the hexagons and circle frame. The frame is optional, because you can figure out the formation without it. But it's kind of cute and reminds me of the game at Nanny & Papa's house.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35482482810/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35482482810_dc5ea49bec_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />Start laying down the pieces and matching up the numbers. I usually begin in the middle and then add them one by one around the sides. Of course, you need to make sure that each touching side matches.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35030955294/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4277/35030955294_e5d23322c2_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />In this case, the 2 and the 4 on the green hexagon match up with the blue and the pink.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35829661676/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4305/35829661676_843727b9db_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />Unfortunately, after that, none of the pieces would fit. Time to start again!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35030940964/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4322/35030940964_0d3b81b1b0_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35061002603/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4302/35061002603_fd3e4bf154_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />You could make this into a family challenge by adding magnets to the back of the pieces and putting them on your fridge. Then everyone can try to solve the puzzle as they pass by!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35701209882/in/photostream/" title="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4288/35701209882_6a5ccaed11_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Printable Hexagon Puzzle"></a><br /><br />And although I'm not showing off the correct solution here (you want a challenge, right?), it is possible to fit all of the hexagons with matching numbers. And no, they won't be in color order because that would be too easy!<br /><br />Good luck!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-53714484313251756832017-07-05T06:00:00.000-05:002017-07-05T06:00:12.337-05:00project // embroidered plush alpaca softie<a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/52230p" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4041/35338410830_0bc4bff293_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F07%2Fproject-embroidered-plush-alpaca-softie.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FAlpacaPlushSM.jpg&description=sew%20an%20embroidered%20alpaca%20softie%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />At my house, we love llamas. There's a good chance that this is mostly due to The Emperor's New Groove, but they're also just kind of fun. Alpacas don't have the same kind of comedic charm, but they are cuddlier, which is why I thought that an alpaca softie would make a great plush. So today I'm sharing how to make a mini embroidered alpaca softie!<br /><br />This is part of a month-long series called <a href="http://www.sewasoftie.com/index.html">Sew a Softie</a>. This isn't the first series like it, but if you haven't heard of it before, Sew a Softie is basically an initiative to encourage kids and adults to sew fun things together. Visit their site to find a whole month's worth of softie tutorials for July!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/QDNp59" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4237/35338407430_4a65eac942_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />This alpaca requires some knowledge of embroidery, but you only need to know <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/p/embroidery-basics.html">the basics</a>. Of course, you could use fabric paint to add the decorative blanket instead. And while I'm showing this made on a sewing machine, you can do all of the sewing by hand if you'd rather. Ready?<br /><br />Here's what you need:<br /><br />Flannel - 1/4 yard<br />Embroidery floss<br />Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy -or- a water-soluble pen<br />Embroidery hoop<br />Scissors<br />Needle<br />Pins<br />Pinking shears<br />Sewing machine<br />Stuffing<br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/AlpacaPlush.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE ALPACA SOFTIE PATTERN</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/oKoyJm" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4240/35594132551_5c4bf0e189_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Print out the pattern page and print or trace the blanket pattern on Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy. To do this, <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2017/05/how-to-use-every-scrap-of-sulky-sticky.html">I used this method for saving scraps of Sulky.</a> <br /><br />Place the flannel in an embroidery hoop and stick the embroidery pattern down onto the fabric (or trace it with a water-soluble pen). Be sure you position the pattern so that you have room for the template outline in the correct place. <br /><br />Embroider the pattern with three strands of embroidery floss. You can use whatever stitches you like, but I used chain stitch, back stitch, french knots, and satin stitch.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/72Pf77" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4279/35725438255_b0f795695c_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Soak the Sulky off and then let the flannel dry. <br /><br />Cut out the pattern template and pin it over the embroidery so that the markings on the pattern match up with the stitching.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/62vzoj" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4242/35338401280_3240c15974_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Flannel like this frays pretty easily, so it's best to cut out the pieces with pinking shears. <br /><br />Cut around the embroidered front, then flip the pattern piece over and cut out the back.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/E8uZ61" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4265/35594125831_0b3f2e0e7d_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Place the front and back pieces right sides together and pin around the edge.<br /><br />NOTE: a simpler way to sew this is to place the pieces wrong sides together, which will give you a softie with raw edges.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/Pdp31q" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4011/34915900623_9000a908f1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Sew around the alpaca with a 1/4in seam allowance. Leave a 2in opening for turning, and back stitch at the start and end of the sewing.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/90Vx83" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4263/35556540972_b6bb14d577_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Clip the curves, trim the top of the ear, and snip the angles at the ear, base of the neck, and the top of the legs. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/4FVnHf" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35556539992_a8662bd0dd_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Turn the alpaca right side out. Fill it with stuffing, adding it in bits so it doesn't become lumpy. Fill in the head/neck and legs first, then fill the body. It should be soft, but full.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/128018" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4285/35556539222_b36b7d8199_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Sew the opening closed with <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-non-embroidery-stitch-you-need-to.html">ladder stitch</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/42iU06" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4208/34915895733_f4d260fdb8_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Your softie is all finished and ready for a snuggle!<br /><br />A soft and cuddly alpaca like this would make a great gift for a baby. Especially if you <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/106928560/3-pack-of-large-rattle-inserts-rattles">add a rattle insert</a> inside. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/jR2511" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4210/34915892783_949920d954_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />I thoroughly enjoyed working the embroidery on this and it went pretty fast. It's actually a little different for me to make a thing that doesn't have a face. Even more so when it's an animal that usually does have a face! But the embroidered blanket wanted to be the star of the show.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/115R18" title="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4018/35338389830_a07f0d3b34_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Embroidered Alpaca Plush"></a><br /><br />Happy crafting!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-85998363433300187532017-07-03T10:57:00.000-05:002017-07-03T10:57:28.153-05:00calendar // guinea pig appreciation<img src="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017July.png" width="640" /><br /><br />Every time that I go to post a new calendar and we're already several days into the month, I consider just skipping it. But the part of me that needs things to be complete just can't do that. So here we are on July 3 with a new guinea pig wallpaper. <br /><br />If you're wondering why Captain Cuddles and Lieutenant Nibbles are wearing carrots as party hats, it's because they are celebrating a special day this month. July 16 is Guinea Pig Appreciation Day, and that felt like something to celebrate. They love carrots, so that seemed a good choice for hats. They may start snacking on them later.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017July_Desktop.png" class="blackbtn">Download the Desktop Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017July_iPhone.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPhone Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017July_iPad.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPad Wallpaper</a></div><br />These wallpapers will fit most devices, so download and appreciate a guinea pig or two!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35297898830/in/dateposted/" title="Happy Summer Printable Tags with Guinea Pigs"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4050/35297898830_aaa32a298f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Happy Summer Printable Tags with Guinea Pigs"></a><br /><br />I also had a request for making last month's summer-loving piggies into a printable, so I set up a 5x7 print and some Happy Summer tags. <br /><br />My mom likes to think that once we hit July, summer is over, but I refuse to accept that. There's still plenty of time to enjoy the sun or at least sip a fruity drink in your backyard. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017June_PrintableTags.pdf" class="blackbtn">Download the Happy Summer Printable Tags</a></div>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-81556037807595169262017-06-27T11:38:00.000-05:002017-07-11T23:06:12.085-05:00visit your favorite spots with the about the town stitching club<div align="center"><img src="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/pics/AboutTheTownStitchingLogo.png" width="500px" /></div><br />We ended the <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2017/04/out-in-nature-stitching-club.html">Out in Nature Stitching Club</a> last week and we're not wasting any time...we're gonna start stitching About the Town!<br /><br />Last year I finished off one stitching club and then ended up waiting over six months to release the next one. Not so this time! The intention with this series of clubs was to have them run one after the other, with only a few weeks between them. And I'm back on that schedule. Yay!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35561482085/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4284/35561482085_3cc7534c41_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><br />This is the third in my Exploring Your World Stitching Club series. We started Around the House, then went Out in Nature, and now we're stitching About the Town. Think of this collection of embroidery patterns as representing your favorite places to visit in your town. <br /><br />These places are better than running errands because they're the places you go to that bring sparks of joy: a cup of coffee, a good book, freshly cut fabric, and more!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35431456711/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4258/35431456711_aecbc444a7_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><br />This club is part embroidery and part English paper paper piecing (EPP). The result is a hexagon-shaped embroidered mini quilt that is almost entirely stitched by hand. <br /><br />As always, embroidery is at the heart of the project. This club features six sets of tiny embroidery patterns representing favorite shops and spots you might visit while you're about the town. I like staying home, but if I were to spend a day with a friend in my town, we'd go to all the places these patterns feature. Each week's pattern is made up of three tiny designs, so you actually get 18 tiny motifs.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35561471495/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4211/35561471495_5e04e2499f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35561475875/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4238/35561475875_878ee52bf9_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35431451601/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4266/35431451601_5c18f2ba62_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><br /><b>The About the Town Stitching Club begins on July 11</b>, and club members will receive an email with a new pattern or set of instructions each Tuesday for the 8 weeks. If you sign up after the club starts, you'll still have access to all of the emails and files that have already been sent.<br /><br />As mentioned, this is part of a series. Which means that if you end up signing up for all four parts, you can combine all of the Exploring Your World patterns into one large quilt using EPP templates. (You'll receive the pattern for that during the club.)<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35431463591/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4229/35431463591_22742c6d10_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><br />This kind of project is so much fun to do in groups, so tell your friends and then plan some gatherings so you can all stitch About the Town together!<br /><br />Don't have friends who stitch? This is also a great way to meet people from around the world who are stitching along! You can do that by sharing your progress online with the hashtag #AboutTheTownStitchingClub (and then interact with others doing the same!).<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34752649003/in/photostream/" title="About the Town Stitching Club"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4288/34752649003_8c08ba4b11_b.jpg" width="640" alt="About the Town Stitching Club"></a><br /><br />Sign-ups are officially open now, and they'll remain open throughout the club so you can join anytime. The price is just $8.00 (That's the total price you'll pay for the entire 8-week club!). <br /><br /><div align="center"><b>About the Town Stitching Club: $8.00</b><br /><a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&ejc=2&cl=193185&i=1545162" target="ej_ejc" class="ec_ejc_thkbx" onclick="return EJEJC_lc(this);"><img src="https://www.e-junkie.com/ej/ej_add_to_cart.gif" border="0" alt="Add to Cart"></a><br /><a href="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/gb.php?c=cart&ejc=2&cl=193185" target="ej_ejc" class="ec_ejc_thkbx" onclick="return EJEJC_lc(this);"><img src="https://www.e-junkie.com/ej/ej_view_cart.gif" border="0" alt="View Cart"></a><br /><script type="text/javascript">function EJEJC_lc(th) { return false; }; </script><br /><script src="https://www.e-junkie.com/ecom/box.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br /></div>NOTE: If you are outside of the US or Canada, <a href="http://wildolive.etsy.com">please visit my Etsy shop</a> to sign up.<br /><br />When you sign up you will receive a PDF containing a list of supplies, templates, and some instructions to get you started.<br /><br />If you have any questions, please ask them here and I'll answer right in the comments. Or, feel free to email me (molliejohanson at gmail) or reach out via social media.<br /><br />Let's stitch about the town!<br /><br />PS: As with the other clubs in this series, each weekly email will contain prayer points for those who like to pray while they stitch. If that's not your thing, don't worry...it's small and easy to skip.Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-88159063535497181292017-06-26T13:42:00.000-05:002017-06-26T13:42:34.390-05:00project // felt pineapple welcome banner<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35490865395/in/dateposted/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4205/35490865395_7a79cd5069_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F06%2Fproject-felt-pineapple-welcome-banner.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FPineappleWelcomeBannerSM.jpg&description=DIY%20Felt%20Pineapple%20Welcome%20Banner%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />The pineapple has been used as a symbol of hospitality for some time. So although this tropical fruit is enjoying an extended trend these days, it's important to keep around as we welcome people into our lives and homes. <br /><br />Hospitality is defined as "the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers." This act of love changes lives, and I'd like to think that just having a welcome banner that we see everyday will remind us to be welcoming and hospitable. Even if it isn't within our homes (though that's a beautiful thing), we can welcome guests, visitors, and strangers into our lives. <br /><br />To make your own felt welcome banner (with a kawaii pineapple, because that's my thing!), it's easy and fairly quick. Grab your supplies (I used <a href="https://www.benziedesign.com/">Benzie wool blend felt</a>), and start making and welcoming!<br /><br /><b>Supplies:</b><br />Pineapple - 8x10in each of two shades of yellow<br />Letters - about 10x2.5in<br />Pineapple top - 6x6in of green<br />Backing felt - 12x18in<br />Embroidery floss<br />Crochet thread for hanging<br />12in Skewer<br /><br /><b>Tools:</b><br />Freezer Paper <br />Pen or Pencil<br />Iron<br />Scissors<br />Craft/Fabric glue<br />Needle with a large eye<br />Rotary cutter, mat & ruler (optional, but helpful)<br />Hole punch<br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/PineappleWelcomeBanner.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE PINEAPPLE WELCOME BANNER PDF</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35447548986/in/dateposted/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4265/35447548986_87d8bc414c_b.jpg" width="1024" height="686" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Print out the pattern pages and trace the main pineapple shape onto freezer paper. From a darker shade of yellow felt, cut out the oval shape. Iron the freezer paper pattern to the lighter yellow felt. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35319773652/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4218/35319773652_ceb2e47ccd_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Cut out the around the pineapple and cut through all of the lines, keeping the layout intact. This becomes a bit like a puzzle with very similar pieces, and while you can move some of them around, it's just as easy to set them out in order. <br /><br />Place the pieces on the solid, darker pineapple piece, leaving a small gap between them. Start at the center and work out. You'll find that there are a few small pieces around the edge that aren't needed and a few pieces that overlap the edge. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35319769832/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4265/35319769832_4e3fc0fc24_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Peel off the freezer paper. Use a few dots of glue at the points of the diamond shapes to hold them down on the pineapple shape. Let the glue dry.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35100688290/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4210/35100688290_820f8f83a8_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Using all six strands of floss, embroider the face with french knots and back stitch. Stitch and X in the middle of each diamond shape, adjusting the size and placement as needed for the smaller edge pieces.<br /><br />All of this stitching will be going through both layers of felt, so make sure that your Xs stay within the solid pineapple shape. The stitches are both decorative and functional to help hold the layers together.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35319762812/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4210/35319762812_850f1e5c0c_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Flip the pineapple over and trim away the extra pieces that are overlapping the edge.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35100676780/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4233/35100676780_b07c5c5f6b_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Fold the 12x18in piece of backing felt in half the long way. Use a ruler and angle it from the outside corner to 3 inches from the edge on the folded side. Cut with a rotary cutter to form the shaped bottom of the banner. You can also mark this and cut it with scissors.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35319757322/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4214/35319757322_332701f7fa_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Use a hole punch to make six evenly spaced holes along the top edge of the banner. The outer holes should be about 1 inch in from the sides. My holes are a little too close to the edges, so DON'T make yours look exactly the same as mine!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35319763182/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4234/35319763182_68fc841932_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Trace the letters onto freezer paper, iron it to felt, cut out the letter shapes, and peel away the freezer paper. I left the center in my O, but you can cut that out if you wish.<br /><br />Trace two of the pineapple tops onto freezer paper, iron them to green felt, cut out the shapes, and peel away the freezer paper.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35100671040/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4282/35100671040_27f2c2fbab_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Lay all of the elements out on the banner backing. The green tops will overlap each other and go behind the pineapple. You can curve the line of letters or place them on a straight line.<br /><br />This is more so you know where all of the pieces will go. Pull them all off, except for the green tops. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34677063413/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4287/34677063413_e973a4e45a_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Stitch the pineapple tops down with long straight stitches. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34645916254/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4255/34645916254_62a10b0300_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Put the main part of the pineapple back in place. You can add a few dots of glue or use pins to hold it while you stitch it down. Use three strands and running stitch around the edge.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35100660580/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4288/35100660580_ae99cffc1f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Place the letters on the banner again and stitch them down with running stitch down the center of the letters. You can use matching or contrasting thread for this.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35104445150/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4265/35104445150_f4bb8e2149_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Trim the end off of the wooden skewer and slide it through the holes at the top of the banner. Tie a loop of string around the skewer so it's ready to hang.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35104443710/in/photostream/" title="Pineapple Welcome Banner"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4237/35104443710_b818dac45d_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Welcome Banner"></a><br /><br />Hang your new banner on your front door or near the entrance to your home to welcome visitors!<br /><br />Happy Crafting!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-45139884337213317152017-06-14T11:46:00.000-05:002017-06-14T11:46:19.518-05:00printable // pineapple of my eye wall art<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34919128330/in/dateposted/" title="Pineapple Of My Eye Print"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4208/34919128330_9238bfb5c0_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Pineapple Of My Eye Print"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F06%2Fprintable-pineapple-of-my-eye-wall-art.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2Fpineappleofmyeyeprintsm.jpg&description=free%20printable%20%2F%2F%20pineapple%20of%20my%20eye%20wall%20art"></a><br /><br />On a recent visit to Anthropologie I spotted a towel that said "you're the pineapple of my eye" and while it's a little cheesy, it's also super cute. Since I'm comfortable with a mix of cheesy and cute, I decided to make a little printable with the phrase.<br /><br />You may remember that I previously shared an <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2016/10/printable-kawaii-apple-coloring-picture.html">"apple of my eye" coloring picture</a>, and I love the meaning of that saying. It's about protecting something precious. Does a pineapple fit into that? Maybe not. But pineapples!<br /><br />My youngest sister is ready for pineapples to go away, but I'm not. Not to mention, since I put this tropical fruit in the paws of my guinea pigs on the June calendar, I'm declaring it pineapple month on Wild Olive. <br /><br />For now, download your printable wall art, trim the 5x7 rectangle, and tape it to your wall or place it in a frame. Enjoy!<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/pineappleofmyeyeprint.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE PINEAPPLE OF MY EYE WALL ART</a></div>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-24503948621372783372017-06-07T15:35:00.001-05:002017-06-07T15:42:59.139-05:00help for the challenges of working at home<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/24235402391/in/album-72157606559933217/" title="in the works..."><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/2/1479/24235402391_96b01750c8_b.jpg" width="640" alt="in the works..."></a><br /><br />When people ask me what I do for a living, I take a deep breath and then attempt to describe my work. What I do doesn't fit into a tidy little box with a one-word title. In fact, I've stumbled over this many, many times. But now, this is what I say: <br /><b><br />I create content for blogs, books, and magazines that have a focus on crafts and sewing. I also have an Etsy shop where I sell patterns that I design.</b> <br /><br />It's not a full description of all that I do, but it gets people curious. Inevitably, we reach this question: "<i>And you can make a living doing that?</i>" The answer to that can get even more complicated, but the reality is that however all of my work and circumstances come together so that I can make it work to work at home. Which brings me to this...<br /><br /><a rel="nofollow" href="https://us154.isrefer.com/go/UWAHB/a3168/"><img width="640" src="http://2017uwahb-banners.s3.amazonaws.com/general/1200x1200_D.jpg" /></a><br /><br />I've shared things from Ultimate Bundles here before, and I felt like <a href="https://us154.isrefer.com/go/UWAHB/a3168/">the Ultimate Work-at-Home Bundle</a> was one that you would want to see. Because maybe, just maybe, you're thinking of working from home to supplement family income or to build an empire. Certainly it's a bundle that I wish I had when I started building up all that I do. <br /><br />Whether you're single, married, living with alone or with a crowd, working at home or working for yourself presents unique challenges. Telling people what I do is a small thing, but managing my time and handling finances are a whole other thing! Finding assistance for these challenges all in one place is so helpful.<br /><br />Like everything from Ultimate Bundles, this is a large collection of resources for a steal of a price. It can almost be overwhelming to think about using everything, and that's because it would take you ages to use everything! Instead, it's better to look at what they have to offer and start with a few that would be the most beneficial to you. <br /><br />These are the ones that I would have wanted at the start (and most likely for the long term!):<br /><blockquote>Crafting a Business 101: The Creative Business Plan<br />The Accidental Entrepreneur: The Juicy Bits<br />Project Management for Creatives: Principles to Simplify and Streamline Creative Work<br />Conquer Cash Flow: Get Paid Faster and Increase Cash Flow</blockquote>But depending on where you are on your work-at-home journey, you'll find others that are just what you've been looking for. <a href="https://us154.isrefer.com/go/UWAHB/a3168/">Find the complete list right here.</a> You'll probably find that just one or two products make it worth the price of the bundle, and that all the other items are bonuses!<br /><br />If you've thought that you might want to start an Etsy shop, become a virtual assistant, freelance in some way, it's worth taking a look at the Ultimate Work-at-Home Bundle. (But hurry, because this is a limited time offer!)<br /><br /><div align="center"><a rel="nofollow" href="https://us154.isrefer.com/go/UWAHB/a3168/"><img width="380" height="95" src="http://2017uwahb-banners.s3.amazonaws.com/button/learn_more.png" /></a></div><br />And just as a small disclaimer, I am an affiliate for this bundle (it's part of how I make a living working at home!), but I choose to share this because I respect the work of Ultimate Bundles and I believe their offerings can be a help to you!<br /><br />Now, because I'm curious...do you work at home? What do you find your biggest challenges to be?Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-72305652063390973072017-06-06T16:55:00.001-05:002017-06-06T17:01:20.574-05:00beyond basics // foliage stitch pineapple embroidery<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35103781866/in/dateposted/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4238/35103781866_88b5ffbef0_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F06%2Fbeyond-basics-foliage-stitch-pineapple.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2Ffoliagestitchpineapplesm.jpg&description=foliage%20stitch%20pineapple%20embroidery%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />I recently learned about foliage stitch, which was new to me. And wanting to give it a try right away, I decided to make an embroidered pineapple. Because we just can't get enough pineapples, right? <br /><br /><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/270145677631050828/">My encounter with foliage stitch was on Pinterest</a> and I was smitten. The style of it tells me that it's a needlepoint stitch, but I didn't see many other references to it by this name. So maybe it's called something else? Since the person who posted it called it foliage stitch, I'm going with that.<br /><br />But since her example was on evenweave and done more like traditional counted thread embroidery, I worked it up my own way. Breaking the rules of embroidery is perfectly fine and worth perfecting. So here's my version of how to work foliage stitch:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34978893012/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4227/34978893012_e36294ba88_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />This stitch is worked within a square turned on the diagonal. If you look closely, you'll see a faintly marked pink square here.<br /><br />Come up at one side corner and go back down at the bottom corner. Come up at the opposite corner and back down at the bottom corner.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34333626313/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4199/34333626313_230f2b5a15_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />We start getting into more breaking the rules territory here. Because in theory, you should make the next row of stitches immediately above the first. But I'm jumping to the middle because it's easier to visually space out the stitches this way. At least, for me it is. <br /><br />Feel free to stitch these in any order you choose. You can even stitch one side first and then the other side. I did this while stitching my pineapple, as it saves on thread.<br /><br />So, come up in the middle of one of the top edges, then go down directly in the center of the square. Repeat on the other side.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34298682984/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4274/34298682984_ce25ec315f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Come up half way between the first stitches and go down half way between them, right on the vertical center. Repeat on the other side.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34298681274/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4224/34298681274_af05fcc6fa_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Come up half way between the top corner and the top stitch and go back down on the vertical center between the top corner and the point where the top stitches meet.<br /><br />This is a little different from the original stitch I saw, because that one only had three sets of these angled stitches. Technically, you could do as many or as few as you wanted, depending on the size you're making these stitches, as well as how dense you want them to look.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34298679804/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4213/34298679804_0b1d097ea3_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Finally, finish it off with a vertical stitch from top to bottom. Or bottom to top. Again, it's not vitally important what order you work these stitches.<br /><br />So now that I've showed how to do foliage stitch, it's time to find a way to use it! I loved the piece that inspired my exploration into the stitch, but is it only for a purely geometric design? My trouble with stitches like this is that they aren't always easy to work into the kinds of patterns I like to make and stitch. <br /><br />I mean, I LOVE learning new stitches, but I keep going back to the basics because they work for the designs I enjoy. So I started thinking about how this "beyond basics" stitch could make something cute.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34298678874/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4241/34298678874_a0d8cc5190_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />And a pineapple came to mind! The shape of the stitches works really well for the pattern of a pineapple, and even for the top. Not to mention, this stitch makes it possible to finish this little stitchery in an evening!<br /><br />I set up a pattern for you, and it comes in two sizes on the page. My finished pineapple is the larger pattern and it fits in a 4in hoop. The stitches are a little long at this size, but it just barely works. I used all six strands of floss, but I think it would very pretty with fewer strands or perle cotton.<br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/foliagestitchpineapple.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE FOLIAGE STITCH PINEAPPLE PATTERN</a></div><br />As you can see, some of these are half foliage stitches. Also because I kept true to the form of the stitches, some edges of the pineapple are more open. Feel free to finish those off and have more of a border of long stitches around the entire shape. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34298676484/in/photostream/" title="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4285/34298676484_2c0f4810cf_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Foliage Stitch Pineapple Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Happy pineapple stitching!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-66542412228607075122017-06-01T19:31:00.000-05:002017-06-01T19:32:33.402-05:00calendar // summer-loving guinea pigs<img src="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017June.png" width="640" /><br /><br />And just like that, it's June. And while I would have happily accepted a bit more May or even April, it seems that Captain Cuddles and Lieutenant Nibbles are ready for summer. They've got their piggy sunglasses and pineapple drinks ready. Before long, I suppose I'll be sporting a similar look!<br /><br />At least for now, my screens and yours can feature my favorite guinea pigs in their summer garb. Grab your wallpapers here and they should fit most devices. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017June_Desktop.png" class="blackbtn">Download the Desktop Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017June_iPhone.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPhone Wallpaper</a><br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/2017June_iPad.png" class="blackbtn">Download the iPad Wallpaper</a></div><br />Before May is too far in the rearview mirror, here are a few posts that I shared elsewhere last month!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34653471360/in/dateposted/" title="Fingerprint Portrait Keychain"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4252/34653471360_be000166cc_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Fingerprint Portrait Keychain"></a><br /><br />Father's Day will be here before long, and this keychain is a project that you can make with your kids as a gift for dad. The fingerprint portraits are fun and easy, and <a href="http://www.hellobee.com/2017/05/26/diy-fathers-day-fingerprint-portrait-keychain/">you'll find the tutorial at Hello Bee.</a> <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34876708232/in/photostream/" title="Fathers Day Fry Box"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4196/34876708232_af72cabdb5_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Fathers Day Fry Box"></a><br /><br />Need some fries to go with that shake? Err...wait...no. Need a card to go with that gift? Yeah, that's better! Head to Handmade Charlotte to find this <a href="http://www.handmadecharlotte.com/fathers-day-fry-box/">printable french fry card</a> that you can customize with all of the things you love about your dad!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34909062171/in/photostream/" title="Summer Border &amp; Corner Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4199/34909062171_dcd13e3684_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Summer Border &amp; Corner Patterns"></a><br /><br />Get ready for summer with embroidered borders and corners! These <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/summer-border-embroidery-patterns-4137818">free patterns at The Spruce</a> come in three styles and they're perfect for stitching along the edge of your picnic linens.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/35041099545/in/photostream/" title="T-Shirt Embroidery"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4219/35041099545_eb17bec7fa_b.jpg" width="640" alt="T-Shirt Embroidery"></a><br /><br />Or if you want to add some of those summer borders to the hem of a t-shirt, you'll also find <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-embroider-on-shirts-4137827">my post on how to embroider on tees</a> and other stretchy fabrics over on The Spruce. There are a few stabilizer methods to choose from, so you can find your favorite!<br /><br />Happy June Crafting to you!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-89047996508098698112017-05-26T06:00:00.000-05:002017-05-26T06:00:26.191-05:00how to use every scrap of sulky sticky fabri-solvy<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34731695962/in/dateposted/" title="Sulky Saving"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4202/34731695962_7b85acabec_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Sulky Saving"></a><br /><br />If you follow me on Instagram, you frequently see me stitching projects with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sulky-11-Inch-Printable-Fabri-Solvy-Stabilizer/dp/B004R2B3NU">Sulky Sticky Fabri-Solvy</a>. It's my favorite method for <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2013/09/how-to-transfer-embroidery-pattern-onto.html">pattern transfer onto nearly any material</a> and I use it a TON. Although I do sometimes just trace with a pencil for small, easy designs, I love that you can print the patterns directly onto the Fabri-Solvy. Especially for more detailed patterns. <br /><br />But when you print a pattern onto a sheet, there's almost always extra Fabri-Solvy that you don't use. <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2015/06/thread-bits-saving-sulky-sheets.html">I shared one way that I save on these sheets</a>, but I have another way that I make sure as many scraps get used as possible. Someone else shared this idea with me, so I can't take credit, but I'm very happy to share it with you!<br /><br />All around the edge of the photo above, you see my many scrap pieces. Every time I print a larger pattern, that requires that I start with a full sheet, I trim these piece off and save them.<br /><br />When I have a smaller pattern to print, I start by printing the pattern(s) on regular paper. Next, I trim piece(s) of Fabri-Solvy to fit the pattern(s), with some extra room.<br /><br />Then I tape the piece(s) over the printed pattern(s), making sure that the tape doesn't go over where the pattern is. This is why it's important to have some extra room around the edges.<br /><br />Finally, the page goes through the printer once again, with the paper feeding through in the same direction as the first time so the patterns line up with the Fabri-Solvy. And I always print in draft mode so there's less ink. <br /><br />And all those bit of Fabri-Solvy get used instead of trashed!<br /><br />Note: I'm not affiliated with Sulky in any way, I just LOVE their product. However, the link to Amazon is an affiliate link. If you choose to order via that link, it helps support this site!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-37934916234843674322017-05-23T06:00:00.000-05:002017-05-23T06:00:01.380-05:00get ready to make yourself at home in this life<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34691916271/in/dateposted/" title="At Home in This LIfe Book"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4187/34691916271_f3b71110ed_h.jpg" width="640" alt="At Home in This LIfe Book"></a><br /><br />Today is a big day for <a href="https://jerusalemgreer.com/">Jerusalem Greer</a>, because her new book, At Home in This Life: Finding Peace at the Crossroads of Unraveled Dreams and Beautiful Surprises, officially releases. <br /><br />I met Jerusalem in December, after enjoying her first book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Homemade-Year-Blessings-Crafting-Together/dp/1612610676">A Homemade Life: The Blessings of Cooking, Crafting, and Coming Together</a>. Soon after we met, she invited me to design some embroidery patterns that would be part of her At Home in This Life Curated Collection. Naturally, I said yes!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34824435815/in/photostream/" title="At Home in This LIfe Curated Collection"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4228/34824435815_239d71bb09_b.jpg" width="640" alt="At Home in This LIfe Curated Collection"></a><br /><br />There are so many talented creators who contributed to the collection and I was honored to be part of this. <br /><br />The first pattern I made was part of a pre-sale bonus package she offered, and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/517681180/at-home-in-this-life-pdf-hand-embroidery">it's now in my shop</a>. You've seen it here before in <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2017/03/how-to-frame-embroidery-with-lacing.html">my most recent embroidery framing tutorial</a>, but here's a reminder:<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33323379162/in/dateposted/" title="At Home in This Life"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/639/33323379162_6f5ba10c57_b.jpg" width="640" alt="At Home in This Life"></a><br /><br />Make Yourself at Home in This Life. I really do need these words to keep me knowing that God has given me this life and that I don't need to wish or whine my way out of it. (I should say, I love my life and my work and my family...it's just different from what I expected it would be at this point.)<br /> <br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34691897731/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4193/34691897731_c9846eac62_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><br />Next I designed a collection of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/531487865/prayer-encouragement-words-pdf-hand">Prayer & Encouragement Word patterns</a>. There are seven words, each in two styles and sizes, and they are perfect for using with the prayer flag project in Jerusalem's book. One set of the words have my Wild Olive happy objects with them and the other set is a scripty, hand-lettered style.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34691891681/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4158/34691891681_c7ef15817d_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33981180914/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4188/33981180914_6064b13699_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><br />When I made my set of prayer flags, I used a combination of the word styles, and mixed and matched bits of new and vintage florals, linen, and precious pieces of Liberty fabric. Making this was a delight, and they now hang over my bed (in the place where a different Jerusalem Greer garland hung at Christmas time!). <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34691894921/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4171/34691894921_8650c2148e_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34824430635/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4167/34824430635_dea28df6b7_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34784386496/in/photostream/" title="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4162/34784386496_0d1c236ea0_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Prayer Flag Embroidery Patterns"></a><br /><br />Of course, these words can be embroidered on lots of things for many reasons. They'd make beautiful pillows, quilts, cards, and more. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34824439175/in/photostream/" title="At Home in This LIfe Book"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4193/34824439175_eb35b8c260_b.jpg" width="640" alt="At Home in This LIfe Book"></a><br /><br />To see the entire At Home in This Life Curated Collection, visit <a href="https://jerusalemgreer.com/">JerusalemGreer.com</a>. You can also order an autographed copy of At Home in This Life at her site or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/532345591/at-home-in-this-life-autographed-book-by">in my Etsy Shop</a>. <br /><br />Congratulations, Jerusalem and thank you so much for inviting me to create patterns for making us all at home!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-62505111740000601192017-05-18T22:34:00.000-05:002017-05-18T22:34:27.775-05:00pattern // a poppy to remember<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34613062261/in/dateposted/" title="Poppy Embroidery Pattern"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4200/34613062261_5ccd5b3924_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Poppy Embroidery Pattern"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F05%2Fpattern-poppy-to-remember.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FPoppyEmbroideryPatternSM.jpg&description=kawaii%20poppy%20embroidery%20pattern%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />While driving through my neighborhood, I spotted some beautiful poppies growing in an even more beautiful garden. I've never tried growing poppies, although I did draw a tiny poppy embroidery pattern for the 50 States Stitching Club. Seeing those poppies, however, made me want to make a new poppy pattern. <br /><br />As I started drawing what is at least inspired by poppies, I also remembered that this flower is often connected with Memorial Day. And it's nearly Memorial Day, so I guess I was inspired at just the right time!<br /><br />I think this pattern would look great in a hoop, but it would also be beautiful stitched as a sachet or a little pin cushion. For the centers, <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2014/07/beyond-embroidery-basics-pistol-stitch.html">I'm picturing pistil stitch</a>. If you'd rather, straight stitches and french knots would also work. <br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/PoppyEmbroideryPattern.pdf" class="blackbtn">DOWNLOAD THE POPPY PATTERN</a></div><br />Happy stitching!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-37698532379183079912017-05-11T06:00:00.000-05:002017-05-11T06:00:13.654-05:00printable // floral watercolor cards<a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/0LfJS8" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4158/34448004111_4e8c369538_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><a data-pin-do="buttonPin" data-pin-count="beside" data-pin-save="true" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildolive.blogspot.com%2F2017%2F05%2Fprintable-floral-watercolor-cards.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fmolliejohanson.com%2Fwildolive%2Fpics%2FWatercolorFlowerCardsSM.jpg&description=DIY%20Floral%20Watercolor%20Cards%20with%20Printable%20%2F%2F%20wild%20olive"></a><br /><br />Need a last minute card for Mother's Day, but you'd like something more special than what you'd buy at Target? Or maybe you just can't handle paying the same amount for a piece of cardstock as you would for a Frapuccino? It's not that mom isn't worth it, but if you mom is like mine, she's rather have the coffee. Enter the DIY Floral Watercolor Card<br /><br />It's part printable, part unique piece of art. Kids can even get involved with the painting!<br /><br />Plus, the printable file includes a few other versions so you can make cards like this for other occasions too.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/685593" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4167/33735404714_d1102dc0d1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />You will need:<br /><br />A blank card - 4.25in x 5.5in when folded<br />Plain paper - 24lb. is best<br />Washi tape<br />Watercolor paint<br />Small to medium flower-shaped craft punch - any style works<br />Embroidery floss<br />Needle<br /><br /><a href="http://molliejohanson.com/wildolive/WatercolorFlowerCards.pdf">Watercolor Flower Cards PDF</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/89E1Q7" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4188/33768161253_f8343b598c_h.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Print page one of the PDF on regular paper. This is the print guide. Tape the blank card within the lines on guide. You only need a few tabs, and it's most important to have them on the end where the paper feeds into the printer.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/630B8q" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4155/33768159873_258a242c36_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Send the page through the printer again, making sure that you have the page going the correct direction. Print the card page that you want.<br /><br />Remove the card from the page, peeling the tape off carefully.<br /><br />TIP: If you don't have blank cards, you can print page one on card stock, then run it through again for the printed message. Cut out the rectangle and fold it in half to create your own card.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/724USC" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4173/34447996361_fd31e56c83_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Paint a page of regular paper with watercolors. It doesn't have to be anything special, just scribble some colors on there. <br /><br />I made some blobs of color, then added rings around those, filled in areas, dotted some extra colors around, and just had fun. I think it helps to work with similar colors in groupings, blending the colors and creating a rainbow of sorts. You can also limit yourself to just 3 or 4 colors.<br /><br />Let the page dry completely, or help it along with a hair dryer.<br /><br />TIP: If you don't want to paint your own watercolor base, there are free resources for printable watercolor backgrounds online, such as <a href="http://angiemakes.com/free-ombre-watercolor-backgrounds/">these from Angie Makes</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/zTz9Dv" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4165/33768157753_e4e0d647e9_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Use the flower punch to make watercolor flowers. Slide the punch around to find a cropping that you like.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/pF0UbN" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4176/34447992281_82d3184519_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/yNf6r6" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4156/33768155393_8a70625328_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Sometimes the coloring you like won't be centered or it will be hard to reach. Grab a pair of scissors and trim down the edges so you can get the punch where you want it.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/856f92" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4166/34447988371_d3c28a95ca_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Make a bunch of flowers. You won't need all of them for one card, but having a good selection gives you options.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/PWW821" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4194/33768153383_d417b60286_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />To give your flowers more dimension, you can fold them a little between the petals.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/3798m1" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4165/33768151883_57606b4b0f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Now it's time to start arranging the flowers to find a layout you like. Try different colors, placements, and numbers of flowers?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/bWE9J9" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4167/34578395915_f6882ff62a_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/665e8a" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4184/33768150533_bafa3b5249_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/62TSn1" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4178/33735393324_0c09315d12_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />I opted for the simplicity of just three flowers. I also wanted to make sure that none of the flowers go over the edges, as this card needs to fit in an envelope. <br /><br />You may want to grab your phone and snap a photo of your layout before you start assembling.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/4p656k" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4175/33768148783_cca292a5dc_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Thread your needle with three strands of embroidery floss and knot the other end. Start stitching the flowers to the front of the card. Use straight stitches that meet in the middle to make a little star. <br /><br />They don't need to be perfect for even! Just avoid making extra holes in the paper. And when you're done with one flower, tie it off with a knot and start the next. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/f09HyA" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4175/33768148453_e21965d8f7_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />If you're like me, you may want to add a little something extra to your flowers. Because a kawaii Mother's Day is a good thing.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/D0AU1W" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4163/34192198930_8def6bd4d6_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />Isn't that pretty...AND cute? All that's left now is to write a little note inside, wishing mom a happy Mother's Day and thanking her for all she does. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/gp/molliejohanson/k7t788" title="Watercolor Flower Cards"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4185/33768147663_192096bb29_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Watercolor Flower Cards"></a><br /><br />And since flowers this pretty aren't exclusive to moms, the PDF has "thank you" and "congrats" pages as well. And the best thing is, no two cards will ever be exactly the same!<br /><br />Happy crafting!Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7500979.post-48841195825800121332017-05-09T19:21:00.001-05:002017-05-09T19:21:51.279-05:00organizing embroidery floss without bobbins<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34563611945/in/dateposted/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4185/34563611945_d26c5d55ff_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />I love embroidery floss. I love making color palettes, I love taking pictures of it, and I love playing with the pretty skeins. I don't love putting floss on bobbins. Don't get me wrong, <a href="http://wildolive.blogspot.com/2009/11/printable-thread-bobbins.html">I love floss on bobbins</a> and I'm jealous of the folks I know who have all of their threads organized that way. It's just not for me. <br /><br />Especially because I love having skeins of floss to photograph (these were taken with an iPad, so forgive the quality, please!). In fact, sometimes people ask me how I manage to have such perfect skeins in my pictures. The secret is that I have duplicate skeins that I never use (or at least I try really hard not to). <br /><br />Having all these skeins of floss everywhere rarely looks organized, but after seeing someone use photo boxes to store their floss, I thought I'd give it a try. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33753337593/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4163/33753337593_4b41c9428f_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />So, this is a complete set of DMC colors, minus their most recent addition of colors, which doesn't have an official location yet. There are 17 boxes in all. And this set is going to remain intact so I always have the colors available for photos and color reference. <br /><br />The colors in the boxes sort of correspond with the color of the box, but not quite as closely as I would have liked.<br /><br />Each box contains 20-26 skeins, except for the larger clear box that's labeled 17-19. That one has neutrals, and contains closer to 60 skeins. I might be pushing it on capacity for that, but we'll see.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33720851674/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4174/33720851674_00a67b3241_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />For the main method of organization, I looked to the DMC color card. See, I like seeing things grouped by color, rather than number. But sometimes that makes it tricky to find things. Since the color card is set up more by color than number, I knew it would help me out big time.<br /><br />Each box, therefore, represents a column on the card. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33753324813/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4173/33753324813_7d1dab50f1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />If I look at the colors on the card, I can see the column and box where I'll find that skein. If I know the number I'm looking for, I can also use the index, which tells me the column/box. <br /><br />Within the boxes, the skeins are in loose order (I laid them out in order then carefully scooped them up to place them in the box). But even if they are way out of order, I'm only looking through about 2 dozen skeins to find what I'm looking for.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/33720826574/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4160/33720826574_2599e0a4ac_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />For now, each box has a numbered sticky note on top. This way, if I want to change my system, it's easy to do that. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34522458596/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4159/34522458596_7a677500ec_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />16 colorful cases, plus one extra case makes a complete set with easy to find skeins! <br /><br /><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/molliejohanson/34563572025/in/photostream/" title="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"><img src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4164/34563572025_d7ff6c2ea1_b.jpg" width="640" alt="Complete DMC Floss Set in Cases"></a><br /><br />And because these are intended for photo storage, they even came with an outer case that holds all of the 16 smaller boxes. I found this at Michaels, by the way. And I already went back to get a second set so that I can now set up another one with all of the floss that I actually use. Hopefully everything fits!<br /><br /><i>Technically, this isn't a sponsored post, but I want to send mega thanks to DMC for generously sending me embroidery floss from time to time.</i>Mollie Johansonhttps://plus.google.com/117745603511459290768noreply@blogger.com16